Israeli labor strike halted by court order amidst hostage crisis

A nationwide general strike in Israel, aimed at pressuring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate a cease-fire deal with Hamas for the release of hostages, was abruptly called off following a court order. The Israeli Labor Court mandated that the strike end by 2:30 p.m. local time on September 2.

The strike, orchestrated by the Histadrut trade union, led to significant disruptions across the country, including the closure of schools, government buildings, and Ben Gurion Airport, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

It was prompted by the recent recovery of six hostages' bodies in Gaza, which intensified public calls for a deal with Hamas.

Histadrut complied with the court's directive and ceased the strike, though the Hostage Families Forum urged continued demonstrations. Protesters criticized Netanyahu for allegedly obstructing a potential deal, especially after the discovery of bodies including that of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a prominent figure due to his family's advocacy.

The strike and ensuing protests reflect deep divisions within Israeli society and ongoing tensions over Netanyahu’s handling of negotiations and military strategy.